Spring has officially sprung in NoVA. And with the new season comes a slew of fun and exciting events to get you out of the house. Whether you want to embrace new cultures or laugh out loud with one of the funniest late-night comedians, make sure to add a few of these April events to your schedule.
April 1
Bored Teachers Comedy Tour
The viral teacher comedians are putting on a show about one of America’s most challenging professions. Whether you’re an educator, a fan, or just looking for a cheeky way to spend April Fool’s Day, this event promises a hilarious and cathartic experience. Capital One Hall: 7750 Capital One Tower Rd., Tysons, $35–$55
April 11–29
Les Misérables
As one of the world’s most renowned Tony Award–winning musicals, this show hardly needs an introduction. Experience the harrowing and emotional production that has left audiences speechless for generations. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, $69–$225
April 12
Booker T. Jones: Celebrating 60 Years of Green Onions
More than half a century ago, Booker T. Jones & The M.G.’s released the debut album Green Onions. The title track became a sensation. Now, the keyboardist is celebrating his lasting legacy. This concert offers not only an evening full of soulful sound, but also a commemoration of a now-classic tune. The Barns at Wolf Trap: 1635 Trap Rd., Vienna, wolftrap.org, starting at $47
April 15
NOVA Cider Festival
Who doesn’t like cider? Visitors can look forward to tasting over 25 hard ciders, many made in Virginia. Sip on samples while dancing to live music or while having a bite from one of the food trucks. Bull Run Special Events Center: 7700 Bull Run Dr., Centreville, $45–$65
April 15
Our Planet
If the Netflix series of the same name was your jam, take a trip to DC for this live concert. This show pairs gorgeous cinematic imagery with music performed by an onstage orchestra. David Attenborough narrates this celebration of the planet. The World Wildlife Fund receives a donation from each concert. The National Theatre: 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC, $45–$135
April 15–22
90th Historic Garden Week
Dubbed “America’s largest open house,” no other event is quite so fitting to embrace springtime’s gentle beauty. Visitors can plan tours of private and public gardens, as well as historic sites, throughout Virginia. Proceeds help fund restoration and preservation efforts and two landscape architecture research fellowships. Various locations, $15–$75
April 21–23
On Your Feet!
Need a little pep in your step? Looking for something new? This musical might be just the fix you need. On Your Feet! tells the true story of dynamic musical duo Gloria and Emilio Estefan. Capital One Hall: 7750 Capital One Tower Rd., Tysons, starting at $63.50
April 22
Alice in Wonderland Flower Show
Journey down the rabbit hole and take in some seriously impressive views. This flower show will feature 48 arrangements, all themed around the beloved book. Botanical crafts and flower cuttings will be on display. Museum of the Shenandoah Valley: 901 Amherst St., Winchester, free; $10–$15 for museum and formal garden admission
April 22–May 13
Mary Stuart
History aficionados and drama queens alike can rejoice. This play, which depicts the power struggle between Mary Stuart and Queen Elizabeth I, offers audiences a little bit of both. Watch as The Little Theatre of Alexandria travels back to the 1500s, setting the stage for danger, treachery, and two famously strong female characters. The Little Theatre of Alexandria: 600 Wolfe St., Alexandria
April 23
The Passing Zone
Danger, stunts, and juggling? Longtime friends and juggling companions Owen Morse and Jon Wee bring all three to their lively, funny, and interactive performance. If you’re looking for something daring and hilarious, this show promises to deliver. George Mason University’s Center for the Arts: 4373 Mason Pond Dr., Fairfax, $15
April 28
Samantha Bee
If you need a good laugh, carve out some time for Samantha Bee’s comedy show. The late-night comedian earned her fame through sharp satire and raunchy jokes that invoke crack-up laughter. Her performance is sure to be a “stand-up” evening. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, starting at $39
April 28
Darrell Scott
As a Grammy-nominated Nashville songwriter who has toured with Robert Plant and collaborated with some of the biggest names in music, Darrell Scott is the real deal. Now, he brings all of his talents — writing, playing instruments, vocals — to the stage for a show that’s all his own. The Barns at Wolf Trap: 1635 Trap Rd., Vienna, starting at $32
April 29
ALX Dog Walk
Get some exercise with your pooch. This event features a 2-mile walk and contests. Does your dog have the funniest personality, fluffiest tail, or look like you? Proceeds support sustainability efforts. Oronoco Bay Park: 100 Madison St., Alexandria, $35 per walker, free for children under 12
April 29
Indigenous Enterprise: Indigenous Liberation
Audiences are invited to learn about and embrace Indigenous culture through song and dance. This intertribal production features powwow dancers from Native American and Canadian tribes performing songs, stories, and dances honoring their traditions. George Mason University’s Center for the Arts: 4373 Mason Pond Dr., Fairfax, starting at $34
April 29
Taste of Annandale
Back after a two-year hiatus, this festival features fun for the whole family with live music and dance, food trucks, a beer garden, a best-dressed pet contest, children’s performances, and lots of vendors. Tom Davis Drive, Annandale, free
Through April 30
Score
This exhibition features 20 years of work by Joan Dreyer, a Vienna mixed-media artist who uses nontraditional materials to create thought-provoking art about life, loss, and the impact of war. Workhouse Arts Center’s Vulcan Gallery: 9518 Workhouse Wy., Lorton, free
Feature image courtesy George Mason University’s Center for the Arts
This story originally ran in Northern Virginia Magazine’s April issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to our monthly magazine.
